Cars 3 is a 2017 animated film produced by Pixar Animation Studios and released by Walt Disney Pictures. Directed by Brian Fee, it serves as the third installment in the Cars franchise, following Cars (2006) and Cars 2 (2011). The film features the voice talents of Owen Wilson as Lightning McQueen, Cristela Alonzo as Cruz Ramirez, and Armie Hammer as Jackson Storm, among others.
Set five years after the events of Cars 2, the story follows Lightning McQueen, now a seven-time Piston Cup champion, who finds himself overshadowed by Jackson Storm, a new generation of race car equipped with advanced technology that enhances speed and performance. As Storm dominates the racing circuit, many veteran racers either retire or are replaced by younger competitors. During the final race of the season in Los Angeles, Lightning briefly leads but ultimately crashes after being overtaken by Storm and other next-gen racers, marking the end of his worst season.
After recovering from his injuries, Lightning is determined to continue racing and learns that his sponsors have sold Rust-eze to Sterling, a wealthy businessman. Sterling assigns Lightning to train at the Rust-eze Racing Center under Cruz Ramirez, a young race technician who admires Lightning but lacks practical racing experience. Struggling to adapt to modern training methods, Lightning faces frustration as he attempts to regain his competitive edge.
The plot thickens as Lightning and Cruz participate in a figure-8 demolition derby called the "Crazy Eight," where Cruz unexpectedly reveals her racing potential. However, after a confrontation with Lightning, she resigns as his trainer. Seeking guidance, Lightning consults Mater and decides to find Smokey, Doc Hudson's mentor, in Thomasville. With Smokey's help and encouragement from Doc's old friends, Lightning learns new strategies to overcome his speed disadvantage.
At the Florida 500 race, Lightning starts from the back but gradually climbs the ranks with support from Smokey in the pits. When Sterling orders Cruz back to the training center, Lightning makes a pivotal decision: he allows Cruz to take his place in the race. With Lightning coaching her from the pits, Cruz ultimately wins the race using one of Doc Hudson's signature moves.
Cars 3 received generally positive reviews for its animation quality and emotional depth, with critics praising its themes of perseverance and mentorship. The film grossed over $380 million worldwide and was noted for appealing to both children and adult audiences. It emphasizes that while Lightning may be an older car facing new challenges, he still has much to contribute to the world of racing.